Pacific Fund Makes CSHA Possible

Apr 22, 2013

Throughout the year there are a handful of professional meetings for students to attend. Professional meetings such as the California Speech-Language Hearing Association (CSHA) offer many benefits to student speech-language pathologists. Although the opportunities are abundant, the ability for students to attend is scarce. Pacific makes it possible with support from the Pacific Fund.

"When you look at the total cost of a convention, it is not just the membership and registration fees, but also the travel expenses including lodging, food, etc. Alleviating even part of this overall cost makes all the difference," says Chris Weisker '14. Weisker was one nearly 40 Pacific students who attended CSHA.

Students are exposed to many facets of the profession and have access to learn about current and upcoming research. Weisker thoroughly enjoyed his time at the meeting because it "solidified that this is the profession I want to pursue." He continues to say that the few days he spent learning about different subjects provided him with a foundation to enhance his knowledge.

"Already, just one week after the convention, several of my classmates have been able to cite information they learned at CSHA. The important part is that it sparks an interest and gets you to ask questions," commented Weisker.

In addition, students also have a chance to network with alumni and potential employers. Weisker says the networking sessions allowed him to exchange his information with a few individuals in his desired industry, and "I know that at least a handful of students from Pacific received job offers while at CSHA."

Weisker will complete the master of science in speech-language pathology program in August 2014 and looks forward to being part of the Pacific Alumni Family. "I truly value the opportunities I have been given by those who have come before me, and I see no reason why I should not give back in the same way," said Weisker.